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Jenixa continued with her dancing as she entered high school and she became really good at it. She was the top performer in her dance class and her instructor, Allan Stevens, was very impressed with her skills.

One evening she got to class as bit early so she sat down to do some homework when a dreamy eyed kid sat down next to her.

“Hi!” He said a little too enthusiastically which startled Jenixa.

When she regained her wits she looked up at him and gave him a small smile. “Hi.”

“I’m sorry to be so bold, but you are the prettiest girl I have ever seen. What is your name?”

She couldn’t help but laugh at this. Sure she was quite popular in school, having friends from all cliques, but she hadn’t been called pretty before. Well unless you count her Uncle Logan and her family.

“My name is Jenixa Lemi. What’s yours?” She couldn’t keep the laugh out of her tone.

“My name is Cougar Fey. Why do you find it funny that I called you pretty?” The boy was generally confused.

Jenixa decided to skip over that part and just address the part about the boys last name being Fey. “Your last name if Fey? My uncle Logan’s last name is Fey.”

Panic washed over this boy’s face. “You’re related to Logan Fey?”

“Well not by blood. He is the father of two of my siblings and well we just hit it off. We kind of adopted each other.” She laughed again.

“Oh good.”

“Good?” It was her turn to be confused.

“My real, blood uncle is Logan Fey. I was worried we were related.” He was a very forward young man.

“Well then I will join you.” As they studied Cougar kept on talking. He told her he was in Sunlit Tides to participate in the dance academy and was staying with this Uncle Logan. There wasn’t a dance studio where he came from and since the class was very small, there were only four students before Cougar, Mr. Stevens accepted him right away.

Finally the class got underway and Mr. Stevens was so excited to have Cougar with them. Bringing the class to five allowed him to do the end of the year recital he had always wanted to do so he conveyed his plan right away.

All the kids were excited and they got to work right away. They practiced three nights a week and on Saturday’s.

Jenixa, Julie, Farah and Aiden were already great friends having grown up together, but it wasn’t long before they had all accepted Cougar. He fit with them like a puzzle piece. Not only was he fitting well with the group he and Jenixa were growing closer, but any time he asked her out she made it into a group thing. He didn’t mind, as he loved the rest of them, but he was getting frustrated. He wasn’t sure where their relationship was heading or if they were even on the same page in regards to that.

~~

While Jenixa was busy with her dance, Lolita was busy with….well…everything. First it was bird watching, then it was bug collecting, then studying bees, and playing with Cesar and then rock collecting. She was always outside doing something “important” and I couldn’t do anything but encourage her curiosity, but that meant that it was just Joab and I most days.

I spent my days observing my special little boy. His father is a genie and he was born human but as I watch him I find that he isn’t without some of his father’s special talents. He seemed to bond with the animals around the house. It was almost as if he understood them.

The cats loved him and they always wanted to be around him. When he was outside Cesar sought him out. I also noticed that if you were upset or just having a bad day an energy radiated off him and even though you really didn’t want to talk about it and knew he didn’t understand you , you found yourself telling him your woes. He truly was something special.

Not to worry. Lolita and I had our special time as well. After her great adventures outside she would ask me to cuddle up on my bed and watch cartoons with her. Granted she fell asleep most of the time but I enjoyed the bonding moments with her.

Of course there were days she didn’t drift into dreamland and she filled me in on all of her adventures. These days with my kids go by way too fast.

~~

As always the challenge must go on and the next birthstone daddy was ready to partake. His name was Honolulu Sapphire and yes he too was a genie.

He popped into town and in no time at all I was pregnant. He told he had some business to attend to in another country, and he gave me some contact numbers to let him know as soon as the baby was born. He left with a friendly hug.

~~

Summer vacation was just around the corner and it was time for Jenixa’s big show. Asher and I dressed in our best outfits and headed down to the dance hall. I have to admit the show was pretty impressive and all the kids were great, but I was so very impressed with my little girl. She was such a superstar.

The performance ended with a solo from the girls in the class. Their moves were full of beauty and grace.

Jenixa was a vision in peach. I was in awe that a child of mine had such talent, such grace and charm. It was a stunning piece.

When the concert was over Jenixa asked us to let her stay for a while. Mr. Stevenson had an announcement to make. She would catch a ride back with Cougar. Asher and I agreed and after chattering to some of the other parents we headed home.

Back stage Mr .Stevenson gushed about how good the kids were and he informed them he had an announcement to make.

“I just got word that both Jenixa and Cougar have been accepted into the Sunset Valley dance company. Jenixa has been accepted as a principal and Cougar in the line.”

The kids cheered this was great news.

“Right after graduation the two of you will be heading to Sunset Valley. Your first performance will be Swan Lake.”

The news made my even keeled girl a bit emotional. Mr. Steven’s pulled her into a hug and congratulated her. It was truly some wonderful news.

The next day was a Sunday and Asher and I took the kids, who had become a staple at our home, to the beginning of summer festival. They partook in eating contests, which Farah always won, snow cones, water balloon fights, face painting and skating.

At first skating wasn’t Lolita’s thing, but she soon got the hang of it and was cursing around the rink.

The day was coming to an end and Cougar pulled Jenixa aside. Without realizing that she was on a hill he tried to take her by surprise and kiss her catching her chin in the process.

“What on earth do you think you are doing Cougar Fey?” She was quite upset with his actions.

“Listen here Jenixa Lemi. I love you and I want you to be my girl.” His old self surfacing.

“Don’t do this Cougar….don’t do this!”

“Do what? Tell you how I feel?”

“You’re going to ruin our friendship.” She hissed.

“Well honestly my dear at this point it is all or nothing. After the summer we are moving to a new city and if you aren’t willing to return my love then I will have to move on.”

“That isn’t fair.” Jenixa was confused about her feelings and Cougar could see it in her eyes.

He lunged forward, scooped her up into the air and brought her lips down to his. As soon as their lips met Jenixa stopped struggling and relaxed into his embrace. When they pulled apart he smiled at her and said, “Why isn’t it fair?”

“Because I don’t want you to move on from me.” She whispered back.

From that moment on they were more inseparable than ever. Ready to face their new lives together.

~~

By the end of the summer my little ballerina, and her boyfriend, had aged up and were ready to venture on to their new lives.

She had aged into a fine young woman and I knew she would make her dad and I proud of her. We said our good-byes and I held her tight. When I finally had to let go, my little bird flew out the door.

~~

Next it was birthday time at the Lemi’s and both Lolita and Joab aged up.

Lolita aged into a beautiful teenager. Most of her feature are attributed to her dad. Her big blue eyes were noticed by all.

Joab, oh my little Joab. He grew up into such a sweet and kind hearted little man. He was respectful and empathetic to those around him, and he loved to dance.

Finally our house was blessed by babies 60 and 61. Ireland and Kenley Sapphire Lemi. Both of them inherited their father’s blue skin, but that is where their similarities end. Ireland got her daddies hair color, my eye color and was human. Kenley got her grandma Mirid’s hair color, her dad’s blue eyes and she was a genie. I can’t wait to see how these two will bless our lives.

Thank you all for reading. You are why I continue doing this challenge. I hope you like how I have little story lines for the kids. I have a plan in mind for Lolita and Joab that I hope you all enjoy.

I would love to hear what you think and you can tell me in the comments. Please and thank you.

“And we went to a festival…..and and we played basketball..…and and we even kissed in the rain.” Hardy was running his mouth about a mile a minute telling us about his visit to see his best friend Izzy Daniels in Crystalline Cove.

“You did what?” I raised my eyebrow up at my son. I was just teasing him, but he didn’t know that and that is what makes being mom the best.

Hardy clapped his hand over his mouth, “I didn’t mean to tell you that.” He stared at me with wide eyes.

I laughed and rubbed his back. “I know baby, its okay. I won’t let the cat out of the bag.” I gave him a reassuring smile. I didn’t like hearing that my teenage boy was out kissing girls I had never met, but they live far enough apart, right?

Raven, who had been sitting at the table listening in silence, let out a heavy sigh, got up from the table causing the chair to tip over, and ran to her bedroom.

Hardy stood up from his own chair and went to pick up Raven’s, “What’s wrong with her?”

I pushed my chair away from the table and stood up, “I’m not sure she’s been acting very odd, since you left.” I headed towards Raven’s bedroom.

I slowly opened her door, “Honey, are you okay?”

My little girl lay on her bed, face down, just sobbing and it broke my heart to see her that way. Walking to her bed I sat down at the edge and rubbed her back as she cried. When her sobs became less serious I pulled her up from her laying position into my arms hugging her close to my chest, stroking her hair I asked, “What is a darling?”

Here we go again. My little girl, for some odd reason, thinks that Hardy gets the things he wants in life because he is a werewolf. What she doesn’t understand is that he works for the things he wants and she could obtain what she wanted as well if she did the same thing. I felt bad for my daughter that she was always so upset about the fact that she wasn’t a werewolf, but at the same time it was becoming tiresome and the beautiful bonding moment became a full fledged argument. I left her room feeling frustrated that one of my children couldn’t appreciate what they had been blessed with.

After that Time moved along quickly. The kids were doing great in school, even Raven who had withdrawn from the rest of us, and Lolita was a handful. She required a lot of attention and everyone pitched in to help.

Hardy spent every spare moment he had either on the phone or the computer with his friend Izzy and after talking to Mr. Daniel’s on the phone I felt quite comfortable with their budding relationship. Raven spent a lot of time studying or at the local library. Anything to avoid her family, but I couldn’t complain as she was bring home wonderful grades. Jenixa was a joy with her sweet outgoing personality and she was very popular in school and was even involved in dance. The only thing in my household that wasn’t going well was Asher and I. He and his partner in the restaurant have been presented with an opportunity to open a resort in a place called Island Paradise and he eagerly wanted to pursue it which meant that he wanted me to uproot my life and the kid’s life yet again. I understood that it was a great opportunity for him, but I was tired of moving and already so many of my children were spread out. We found ourselves in argument after argument and that was only if he was home.

Despite our fights life has to go on and soon Lolita had learned her skills and it was time for me to find the next father in the challenge. The next birthstone father was unavailable and I wasn’t sure what I was going to until I met an interesting fellow named Alchemy Legerdemain (Thank you Tantalizing Sims for making him for me). He was a genie. No I’m not lying he was a true genie and he was in town on business. He had read about my challenge and was contemplating looking me up to see if he could participate when he ran into me at the park. He took out meeting as a sign. I agreed to let him be the next father and soon I was pregnant.

Then before I knew it, it was time for another Lemi mass birthday part.

Hardy aged into a handsome, just like his father Logan Fey, man. Just a few days after their birthday Izzy made her way to Sunlit Tides. I have to admit she is a charming girl who was raised right. I agreed to let her stay with us until the two of them could find a house.

However, Hardy had more plans than just to moving in together. So two days before they were to move into their new house he took Izzy to the park, they had grown to think of as their park, and proposed to her. Of course she said yes and wedding plans were in the works. (See Jackson Daniel’s blog for the full wedding).

Raven aged into a stunning young woman. She had no idea what she wanted to do with her life, but she had decided she wanted to go to college. We did the paper work and she was set to leave soon after Hardy and Izzy’s wedding.

Jenixa aged into a fun and laid-back girl. When she wasn’t donned in her dance costumes she enjoyed T-shirts and jeans. She was very good-natured and got along with most everyone she met.

Lolita is still a handful as a child, but that is because she is interested in everything and anything and wants to do it all.

Hardy and Izzy’s wedding was beautiful. (Pictures curtsey of the Jackson Daniel’s baby challenge) Raven even seem to have a good time. Ever since she enrolled into college her attitude had one a 180. She was fun to be around again and I thought that college would really help her find herself.

When she got to the University everything changed and I got a letter from her every week. I was glad we were back on track in our relationship and I was happy that another of my babies, Song and Rue also attended, got to attend the university.

At first her letters were slightly concerning. She sounded down and back to her old self, but once she started to make friends the letter started to change.

Then her letters talked about the parties she was attending. She was out there making friends and having fun for the first time in her life. I wasn’t really keen on the juicers she wrote about but I was glad she was out there making memories and I just had to remind myself that I trusted her and she would be okay.

Her major was communications and she made sure to let me know that despite all her fun she was still working hard and maintaining a good GPA.

It wasn’t long until the subject of her letters turned to boys, well one boy. His name was Sterling Sowell and Raven was head over heels with him.

She wrote to me about how they met at a rally. She had attended to see what it was all about and he was just hanging out at the Quad playing kicky ball with a friend. When their eyes met something, a feeling, a sensation ran up her spine. Neither one of them could break their eye contact and Sterling was even hit in the face with the kicky ball, good thing they are semi soft and his friend was a bad player. Sterling walked away from his game, introduced himself and once he had her name he asked her on a date.

Her letter went on to tell me about their first date. He took her bowling and right before closing time he pulled her into his arms asking her to dance. She was perplexed by this because they were in a bowling alley and the only music playing was some song with a lot of base. She had protested at first saying that people would think them to be odd, but he just began to sway with her and said, “I don’t care what people think, do you?”

It sounds like this boy is really pulling my baby out of her shell and allowing her to appreciate the things in her life.

However, not all relationships are perfect and during the first full moon she found out a very big secret Sterling had been keeping from her, and when she found out it was like her past was catching up with her.

Sterling was a werewolf and when he went to pick her up that night he hoped that she would understand and still love him the way she had been for all those weeks prior. When Raven saw him she just stood there dumbfounded and didn’t know what to say. She had finally thought that she had escaped werewolves and her need to be one.

Sterling either thought the silence was a good thing or he was trying to break the silence, but either way he thought it was a good idea to take her in his arms and kiss her.

That wasn’t acceptable in Raven’s book. She shoved him away and fled down the stairs.

Sterling went after her and explained everything. Has was a born werewolf and he doesn’t normally talk about his condition because he found people were cruel and he felt that he was cursed, but he just tried to embrace who he was instead of what he was.

Flowers seem to always aid in an apology or an “Surprise I’m a supernatural being” and when Sterling gave her a bouquet of red roses she knew that she loved him for his heart and it didn’t matter that he was a beast at his core. After that the two were inspirable.

She would return for break soon and I couldn’t wait to see her.

~~

When she and Sterling arrived home there was a change in the house.

I had another new look and ….

I had, had my baby with Alchemy. I called him Joab. It was concerning that I had another single birth, but he was such a wonderful little boy. I was happy to have some bonding time with just him. He looks like a little mini-me with this father’s wonderfully lovely ears. Even though he wasn’t born a genie we noticed early one that he had some, well let’s call them talents.

Not long after their arrival Raven pulled me aside. She had something big she wanted to talk to me about.

“Mom, I don’t want you to be upset, but…”

“Raven, why would I be upset?”

“Well…”she rubbed the back of her neck. “Sterling and I…Um…we are married and we have a baby on the way.”

I looked at my daughter with a stunned expression. I was happy for her of course, but why hadn’t she told Logan and I she was getting married? We would have thrown her a big wedding. And a baby…why hadn’t she told us before this?

“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you but this is something you want to tell in person.” I looked deep into my daughter’s eyes and saw true happiness. Something I hadn’t seen since she was a toddler and my heart forgave her right then and there.

“Well I don’t want to be there when you tell your dad.” I chuckled and I meant it.

We had a great visit and I hugged her tight when she and Sterling left my home forever. I will never forget my beautiful Raven. She will make a great mother and the prefect wife. I can’t wait to hear all about her life.

They had a baby boy and named him Kyle. He inherited my eyes and current hair color and I couldn’t be more proud. I was ecstatic to hear that they had another baby on the way.

Thank you as always for reading. I have been doing this challenge for two and a half years. If it weren’t for those of you that read regularly and the amazing genetics that result in doing this challenge I may have given it up long ago so from the bottom of my heart I thank you.

What an anomaly; the kids were all in bed and the house was quite. Asher and I decided to take a little time for ourselves. We ventured out to the edge of our property and sat down in the soft sand as we gazed at the beauty of the Island. We sat in silence for a while before I had the urge to whisper sweet nothing’s in my husband’s ear.

“I love you Asher Lemi.”

Asher turned to me and there was pain on his face. I searched his face and eyes trying to figure out why such a look was crossing his handsome face.

“I love you to Ashby. We need to talk.”

Those four small words sounded ominous and panic quickly filled me. “A..About what?” I choked out.

He took my hands into his. “We need to move.”

My panic started to subside, but I was still left confused. What did he mean we had to move? We had just moved to the island, where was this coming from?

“What do you mean?”

He scooted closer to me. “I have been given the opportunity to open a second location of the restaurant in a place called Sunlit Tides. I know we just moved here, but this is a great opportunity. I hate to uproot you and the kids again, but I don’t think I can pass up this opportunity.”

The two of us sat staring at one another for a long time. I didn’t know what to say or how to say anything I may have to say. Finally he broke the silence. “I understand if you don’t think you can come with me.” He let go of my hands.

This broke me out of my shock. The tone in his voice was defeat and surrender. There was one thing in this world that I knew and that was I loved Asher and I would follow him anywhere.

“When do we have to leave?” This time I grabbed his hands.

“You will go with me?”

“Babe, I would go with you anywhere.”

“We will need to leave in two weeks.” He looked away from me as if a bomb was about to it and I rarely lose my cool with my husband, but I have to admit I almost did in this incident.

“What? That isn’t a lot of time to pack and we had plans for Violet, A.J. and Christy to come visit us in two weeks.”

“I know, but I figured that they could move their visit back two days and come to Sunlit Tides to help us move into our new home.”

Men…..they never seem to think anything through.

However, I have amazing friends and they were happy to be flexible and help us into our new home.

~~

We arrived in Sunlit Tides and I was astounded by how beautiful it was, and when the cab pulled up to our new house I was happy to see my friends already there and were already unloading the truck.

Mason, Marko and Monroe took care of the toddlers Lavinnia, Luna and Weaver in our new yard as we adults dug in to get the truck unloaded and at least the beds set up before nightfall. It is surprising what five adults can do when they set their mind to it. We accomplished our goal and after Violet and Christy helped me get the kids to bed that night we all had a nice glass a wine and fell into our own beds exhausted.

Asher went right to work the day after we moved to Sunlit Tides and over the next week my friends worked hard to help me get my house in order, but that is not all we did. We also took some time to enjoy Sunlit Tides.

The second night, after Asher got home from work, Violet, Christy and I went to the famous Sunlit Tide spa and the girls talked me into go with a new look. After facials and massages I got my hair colored. I liked my new look, but I wasn’t expecting the greeting I got when we returned home.

“Mom! What did you do to your hair?” Mason gasped when I went into his room to make sure he was getting ready for bed.

“I got a make-over. Do you not like it?”

“Um…well…It is pretty, but it is so weird.” He was truthful.

I chuckled. “Well my dear boy you will get use to it. Now get your pj’s on and go brush your teeth.” I leaned forward and kissed him on his forehead.

“Night mom.” He gave me a 2nd looks and grabbed his Pjs.

Kids they are just the best thing in my life.

In Sunlit Tides almost every house had a pool and our house was no exception. After a long day of unpacking and setting up we ladies would sit around the pool with some nice cold tea talking spending time catching up on our lives. I really missed my friends and I was so glad they were there with me. Asher was already real busy at work and I would have gone crazy if I had to make this transition alone.

We spent some time out by the ocean, relaxing and enjoying being together.

As I watched my friends I admired how Violet and A.J. always looked at one another. They truly are meant to be.

The day before my friends had to leave we had a party on the beach. It was time all my children to enter their next stage of life. The party was s success and everyone had a great time.

From left to right: Mason, Monroe and Marko. What handsome, amazing teenagers came home that night.

And three beautiful children. Lavinnia, Luna and Weaver.

Family photo time. My kids dressed up in their new outfits and Christy took this lovely photo. Thank you Christy Quinn.

The next day I took my friends to the airport. As we waited for them to board we were able to enjoy a nice cup of coffee where Violet made an announcement.

“Ashby, you are one of my dearest friends and my sister-in-law we can’t keep letting so much time go between visits.”

“Honey, we live in different places.” A.J. tried to interject.

“Shhsh..you..I’m talking.” Violet held up her finger and looked at her husband.

A.J. chuckled and took a sip of his coffee. He was use to his wife getting her mind-set on something.

“Anyway since my husband thinks this is ridiculous I’m just going to say this. We need to see each other more.” She too took a drink of her coffee and then the announcement came over their plan was boarding. I said good-bye to my friends and headed home.

~~

My friends were gone, my husband working long hours putting together a new restaurant and all six of my kids were at school. This left me at home with just the pets. Don’t get me wrong Fire, Hazel, Tigeress, Sneaky and Cesar kept me busy and entertained, but I was anxious to continue my challenge. However I wasn’t sure how I would do that since the men that I had lined up before were still back on the island. I couldn’t ask them to relocate a second time.

Then a turn of events gave me the opportunity I was looking for when I got a knock on my front door.

When I opened my door I saw Becks Best and Logan Fey standing at my door. I had never met these two in person, but we had become friends on Simbook as they are part of the Challenge Family. How could I forget they lived in Sunlit Tides. Seeing them I couldn’t hide my excitement.

“Becks, Logan how did you know?” I ran out and hugged them both.

“We saw on Simbook that you had moved here. I ran into Asher in town yesterday and he gave me your address.” Logan informed me.

“I’m so glad to see you both.” I gushed. “I’m going stir crazy being home alone all day.”

“Well come on then. We are taking you out for the day.” Becks grabbed my hand and pulled me down the porch steps.

“Where are we going?” I laughed pulling out of her grasp to lock the door.

The three of us had a wonderful day together. We went shopping, had lunch at a cute place and they showed me all the hot spots of Sunlit Tides. I was so thankful I would have friends here in Sunlit Tides. Then as the sun began to set we had dinner at a cute outdoor restaurant by the ocean.

When our meal was done Logan wiped his mouth and stood up. He extended his hand out to me. “Ashby can we talk?”

I looked over at Becks, who had a grin on her face, and she wagged her eyebrows up and down at me. “Um…Sure.” I replied taking his hand and standing up myself.

He led me to a cute little bench away from the mass of people at the restaurant. We sat down and he didn’t waste any time.

“Ashby, I know having to move so suddenly has put a crimp in your challenge and I wanted to lend my assistance.”

I looked at him with a puzzled expression. “What are you talking about Logan?”

“Well I’m a challenge dad and you’re a challenge mom. I am asking to join your challenge Ashby. Haven’t you ever been asked this before?”

“Sure I have, but..” I let my sentence trail off as I began to think. With Logan’s help I could continue with my challenge and find more dads while I was pregnant with Logan’s baby.

“Ashby are you okay?” Logan snapped me out of my daze.

“Yes I am more than fine. Thank you so much Logan.” I wrapped him in a hug and we agreed to meet the next day to work on the details and make an appoint at the A.I. clinic.

We returned to Becks and took a seat. “Soooooooo…….did you take him up on his offer?” She quizzed.

“You knew about this?” I was baffled.

“Of course I did. Logan in my best friend. We tell each other everything. So will there be more Logan babies running around Sunlit Tides?”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “Yes there will be.”

“Whooohoooo.” Becks cheered and Logan and I laughed.

~~

Before I knew it the kittens grew up. Tigeress looking all regal and pretty.

Sneaky all slim and colorful.

During this pregnancy I just enjoyed it and spent time with my family. Fishing was something the whole family enjoyed doing.

Um Lavinnia my girl are you a bit confused?

Luna that is incredible.

~~

Then before I knew it, it was time for my boys to leave the house.

We said our goodbyes and the boys set off into Sunlit Tides to make their mark on the world.

Monroe, took Sneaky with him, and enrolled in art school. He is doing really well and is dating a woman by the name of Iris Adams.

Marko, my little Loner took Tigress with him, and he got a job at the science facility. His ultimate goal is to become a robot cross breeder. Whatever that is.

Mason, my brave and selfless boy, joined the ranks of the firefighters in Sunlit Tides. I am so very proud of him, but I worry everyday about getting a devastating call.

~~

Time flies when you are having fun as the old saying goes and this pregnancy was taking a toll on my body, and when I went into labor I couldn’t have been more ready.

I was blessed with two beautiful children from Logan Fey.

Raven Fey Lemi and

Hardy Fey Lemi

Not long after the twins turned into tot’s Hardy began to show signs of odd behavior. He would snarl at people, growl and tear things to shreds. I was worried and didn’t know what to do, but when his eyes began to give off an odd, eerie glow I picked up the phone. I had to find out what Logan Fey failed to tell me before we conceived children together.

Thank you for reading. I hope you all enjoyed it and as always I would love to hear what you thought of this post.

Hi everyone..yep it is me again Ashby. I am sure you are getting tired of my blog going from first person to third, but Nina; my good friend and the person who has been writing my blog for some time now, had to go back to her country. She had some family issues she has to take care of. Victor offered to get me another author, but I decided that the rest of the challenge will be written by a Lemi. That being said you will see things written by me and I have given access to all of my kids and they have promised that if there is something to report about them they will log in post it.

So last time the blog left you with news that Orchid and Dutton moving out, Leven and Hooper becoming Teens and Fern, Tyme and Barklay were born, and since then a lot has happened and Leven is going to start off this post.

~~~~
LEVEN’S POV

Hi everyone, it’s me Leven. I’m not a great writer, but I am going to give it a whirl.

Not long after Hooper and I started high school I began to have a shadow. A new family, The Falk’s, had moved into town and their boy, Brighton, began following me around. At first I found it kind of creepy to see him outside of my classes and at my locker at any given time during the day, but then he started to become sort of sweet when he would offer to carry my books and open doors for me. I never let him carry my books but it was sweet.

About three weeks after school started he and his sister, Yusun, announced they were having a party. They randomly handed out invites, but he asked me personally. He told me that he wanted to get to know me better and that is why they were having this party. I told him I would think about going and it seemed to make him happy.

I found myself intrigued because I heard that the Falk’s lived on a house boat. It was rumored that Mr. Falk traveled around the world for his job and living on a boat allowed them to be mobile. I wasn’t prepared to go on my own so I con’d Hooper into going with me.

We showed up at 2 and we were taken back. Brighton was standing on the deck waiting for us. I couldn’t believe that they really lived on a houseboat.

He quickly ran down to great us. He shook Hooper’s hand and threw his arm around my shoulders. I was surprised with myself when I didn’t push it away. It felt kind of nice. He slowly guided me to the boat as he talked about the fun day we were going to have. I found myself smiling up at this handsome face. It was a very strange sensation.

He gave Hooper and I a tour of the boathouse as some of our classmates began to show up. Yusun was a gracious host and greeted them. After everyone arrived we had lunch, and what a spread they had. It was buffet style and we had so much to choose from.

After lunch some jumped into the ocean to cool off while other of us lay out on the deck of the boat and took in the sun.

We had a great time dancing.

Then without warning Brighton swept me into his arms and held me close. He didn’t care who was watching or what people thought. He held me tightly in his arms for two songs, and when the second song was over he asked me to go on a walk with him and I agreed.

We found a beautiful spot with grass, not sand, and we both sat down. He pulled me against him and I found myself quite comfortable listening to his heart beat against his chest. He rubbed my back and I smiled widely.

“Leven, I really like you. Will you be my girlfriend?” Brighton sprung the question on me and I sat up and looked at him with a puzzled expression. I didn’t know what to say and I just stared at him.

He chuckled lifting his hand to my check. He rubbed his thumb over my cheek and I shivered with excitement. I couldn’t deny that Brighton made me blush. “I…I…can I let you know at school on Monday?” I stammered like a true awkward teenager.

Another laugh escaped his lips. “Sure.” was his sweet reply as he pulled me back down to him.

That evening as the sun sank into the ground Brighton walked me out and I received my very first kiss. The butterflies consumed me as his lips brushed up against mine and cold when his hands ran up my arms. My knees were weak as he pulled me closer to him and then it was over. It was over way to soon. I found myself wanting to answer his earlier question right then and there, but I felt I had to live up to my promise of Monday.

As I walked toward that car that would take Hooper and I hope I heard my brother snicker in his seat. “Shut up.” I hissed but I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face.

I didn’t hear from Brighton on Sunday, but I didn’t mind. I wasn’t the typical high school girl who got upset over things like that, but I was eager for Monday to come so that I could find him, throw myself into his arms and tell him I would be his girl. However, my Monday plans were ruin when I got to school and neither Brighton or Yusun could be found. I was told that their father lifted anchor and took his family to the next business destination.

I didn’t quite believe this horrid rumor I heard and after school I dragged Hooper to the location of the boat house. As we looked at the empty water where the boat was just two days before Hooper pulled me into a protective hug as I sobbed onto his shoulder.

~~~~
ASHBY’S POV

It hurt my heart to watch my daughter mope around the house. I told her that things would be better and that everyone goes through a broken heart at some point in their life, but all I got was a blank stare as I talked. I knew that going though heart-break while being young it feels like the end of the world and I knew she would eventual get over it, but that didn’t stop me from trying to make my baby-girl feel better.

Then I got heartbreaking news myself. News that almost made me give up my challenge for the second time during the time I have been doing this challenge.

My son Jones had been in and out of the hospital since he was born. The doctors never really knew what kept him sick, but every few months he was either home sick or sick enough to be in the hospital.

When he and his twin Seely aged into children I offered, as I do to all my children, to send them to a specialty boarding school if they would like. Seely, as all my other children had before him, opted to stay home and be with me and our family, but Jones, to my surprise, took me up on my offer. He told me he had already done some research and wanted to be sent to a specialty school in Hidden Springs. I was shocked and my first instinct was to tell him he couldn’t go; that he couldn’t leave me, but Asher saved me, as he always does, from that embarrassment.

A few days later I made the arrangements.

The night before he left I stood at the bottom of the stairs and watched some of my children bond over one of their favorite movies, but I could see the sadness in the room. Seely was distracted as he looked down to the carpet and Leven had been just as worried and upset as I had been all week-long.

I was like a visible shadow in the house that night. I followed Jones everywhere. After the movie was over Hooper, who had been working out during the movie, read Jones their favorite story and with a tear in his eye kissed him on his head before leaving the room. As Hooper moved passed me I put a reassuring hand on his shoulder. He smiled up at me and left the room.

I took his place next to Jones and pulled the blanket up to his chin.

“Mom I will be okay.” He whispered in a tired voice.

“I know you will.” I flicked the tears away from my eyes.

I knew he wanted to say more, but he was just too tired and his eyes drooped heavily. I stroked his hair as he drifted off to sleep for the last time in his childhood home.

Jones flight wasn’t until the next evening so we all had some more quality time with him. We played games and watched old home movies and ate all of Jones’ favorite junk foods and as afternoon faded to evening we heard the cab horn honk in our driveway and the whole family froze in terror. All but Jones that was. He ran to the door and grabbed his suitcase. “Come on guys..I have to go.” He called.

We all said our good-byes before he headed out the door.

Then just he and I walked out onto the porch.

I scooped him into my arms.

He grabbed my face and said, “Mom I am too big to be picked up.” His voice was hallow and somber just like I felt.

“I know. It’s just that I’m going to miss you my beloved boy. We all are.”

“I’m going to miss you too.” He wiped the tear that slipped down my face. “But there is email, Skype and the phone. I will only be gone in distance.”

“When did you get so smart?” I asked.

“I am what I am because of you mom.” He snaked his arms around my neck and squeezed tightly. “I Love you mom.”

I missed my child but he lived up to his word. As soon as he got to school I got a phone call from him and then every day after I either got a call, email or we arranged to skype so I could see how well he was doing, and doing well he was. After two weeks went by we all started to get back to normal and it was time for another Lemi birthday.

Fern, Tyme and Barklay were now children and oh my Barklay got the evil trait. This should be interesting.

But wait it looks like the girls may be able to hold their own. Don’t they look like they are plotting against Barklay?

~~

The kids, especially Barklay, hated school and when summer rolled around they we so very excited to have three months off and to meet their big brother and his fiancée Newbie and Dawn. Since she could read Tyme had been reading Dawn’s blog and she thought it was so cool that her brother was in it. I asked her once if she thought it was cool that she was talked about in my blog and this is what she said. “Mom,” In a very sarcastic child like tone I should add, “Your blog doesn’t get as much traffic or has as many fans as Ms. Dawn’s does.” She rolled her eyes at me and sauntered off. Gosh I love my kids.

Then the big day arrived and when I heard the cab pull up into the driveway I ran to the door and was greeted by my angel baby and one of my best friends in the world.

“Newbie, my boy!” I flung myself into his arms and he squeezed me tightly.

“Hi mom.” He couldn’t hide his laugh as we released each other. I know we just skyped the night before to make sure everything was in order, but it isn’t the same as seeing your loved one in person and holding them and hugging them.

Next I grabbed Dawn and pulled her into a giant hug as well. “I have missed you both”

“We have missed you too.” Dawn answered for the both of them and my smile grew wider as I realized how much in love these two were.

Just then cab driver came up behind Newbie and Dawn and handed Newbie a cat carrier. “What is that?” I asked puzzled.

“Mom, Dawn and I have a gift for you.” Newbie grinned at me and handed me the cat carrier.

“Oh?” I put it down and opened the door and two beautiful cats cautiously made their way out.

“We know how much you admire the rainbow cats and there are none here on the island so we brought you a breeding pair.” Dawn was so proud of herself. “So meet Hazel and Fire.”

Hazel

Fire

I loved them instantly and I scooped Fire into my arms and Dawn picked up Hazel.

“Come in, come in.” I ushered them inside and gave them the grand tour of the house.

“Wow mom, this house is beautiful.” Newbie, who had his arm draped over Dawn’s shoulders, said as we ended the tour.

“And this island, well what we saw of it on the drive up here, is beautiful as well.” Dawn added.

“Well I can’t wait to show you around, but first let’s get you settled into your room.”

Their visit was such a wonderful one. Newbie and his new siblings got a long famously, but Leven and Dawn really hit things off.

“Leven, my dear why are you so sad?” I watched Dawn and Leven from the top of the stairs. Gosh you must all think I’m a creeper, but you know what? My house my rules 😉

“Ms. Dawn, have you ever had a broken heart?” I guess my telling her everyone goes through it didn’t really sink in, but I was glad she felt comfortable talking to Dawn.

“Of course Leven, before I fell for your brother I was in love with a man named Lerk. I thought he was the one for me and when we parted it was devastating. Why do you ask?”

Leven let it all out then. She told Dawn all about Brighton and how his family just left and she hasn’t even gotten a call, text, letter or email from him letting her know he was okay or that he was sorry they had to leave so suddenly.

Dawn had all the right words for the young Leven and by the end of the conversation they were both laughing. Sometimes a mother’s word is not taken, but the same words from a friend go a long way. I am not sure that Leven is completely over her loss, but talking to Dawn sure did help.

Many mornings Dawn and I would go out in the back, by the little pond we have, and do some yoga. The children were sleeping late and the men were watching some brainless man show and we just enjoyed the quite. The chipping of the birds, the crock of the frogs and the splashing of the fish, it was quite relaxing.

“So are you nervous about the wedding?” I asked Dawn causally as we sat in the cool waters of the pond one morning after yoga.

Dawn giggled nervously. “Should I be talking to you about this? You are my finances’ mother.”

“Dawn, I’m your friend too, but if you would rather….”

“Yes!” She blurted out. “I have no idea why either. I love Newbie and we already live together why would the marriage make me nervous?”

I took her hand. “Because things will change. They may be small subtle things, but things are going to change.”

“I’m not sure I want things to change, but I want to marry Newbie with all my heart and soul.”

“Honey, it will be fine. You two are perfect together.”

“Babe!” I heard Asher call from the house. “When are you going to make breakfast? The kids will be up soon.”

I looked at Dawn and we both laughed. “I don’t get him. He is the one who owns his own restaurant and teaches cooking and I am the one who has to make breakfast.” I rolled my eyes and we got out of the pond and headed toward the house.

~~~

AHSER’S POV

Hi folks…I guess it is my turn to write in Ashby’s blog. I hope I don’t bore you all too much.

So two days before Dawn and Newbie were to leave I decided to take Newbie out for a day. Just the two of us doing guy stuff.

We spent the morning working on out golfing skills. I’m still not that great but we had a good time.

Then I took him to the local bar and grill for some lunch. Our conversations were filled with guy stuff like sports, our women and food. It was a great bonding moment for us. Newbie may not be my child, but I love all Ashby’s children as if they were my own.

After we ate we headed upstairs to play a little shuffle board. I decided that this was the time to bring up his impending marriage. I cleared my throat and began. “So Newbie, are you nervous about the wedding night.” I knew he caught my drift by the look on his face.

Newbie let out a deep laugh and looked at me. “Asher, Dawn and I have two kids together, remember?”

“I know, but your children are grown. It has been a while.”

“Also it wasn’t that long ago I was dating Breeze. I am an adult you know?”

I gulped loudly. This was not going as planned not at all.

“No offence Asher, but you’re not my dad.”

I knew he meant it in the most respectful way and he was right I’m not his dad, but the words still hurt. Ashby has 48 (49 counting Derrick) children and only five of them were mine. It is hard to in a relationship like that. I just wanted all her kids to be mine and to love me as if I were their father, but it just isn’t possible. “I’m sorry if I over stepped. I just thought since your father is an angel and he wasn’t around when you were growing up I could try to help in some way.” I was trying to hide the hurt expression on my face, but I think I failed at it.

Newbie’s face sank and he moved toward placing his hand on my shoulder. “Asher, you are a great man. You take care of my mom, love her and understand her challenge when most men wouldn’t. You love all of us as if we were yours and we love and respect you back. I would be proud to be your son, but we all have fathers.”

His words were precious to me. His mother really did raise him right. I wipe a single tear from my eye and smile at the lad before me.

“Come on Asher. Let’s head back to the house.”

~~~
ASHBY’S POV

It was our last night with our house guests and Dawn and I decided to head out to the local casino for a night of fun and gambling (smart gambling though).

We sat down at a table, both of us not really knowing what we were doing, and we handed the dealer our money and he gave us some red chips in return.

The first couple of rounds both Dawn and I seemed to have good hands. Hands that warranted one of us to get some money for it.

Then our luck began to change. After we began to start losing our money the game wasn’t much fun anymore and we soon quit.

We had a great time at the casino and I was going to be sad when my friend and son left, but I also knew that I would be seeing them again soon to watch them down the aisle.

It seems like most flights off the island leave at night and Dawn and Newbie’s flight was no exception and since they had most of the day left we decided to go to the boardwalk for the day.

The kids were especially excited for this. We all watched as the younger ones played some skeet ball. Seely was the winner of this game. As I watched my kids I couldn’t help but worry about Seely and Jones being separated, but was glad that Fern, Tyme and Barklay included him in almost everything they did.

I stood next to my husband and couldn’t help but whisper in his ear how handsome he looked and how good he smelled.

These two are just the cutest ever. I couldn’t wait for them to walk down the aisle and become man and wife.

Asher and I waited in line for the Ferris Wheel. I just can’t stop myself from admiring his handsome face.

Newbie handed his camera to Asher. “Mom, come take a picture with Dawn and I.”
I walked over to the loving couple and Newbie threw his arm around me. “1…2…3…”Asher called and snapped this picture. FYI Dawn is not preggo….it is just the material on her shirt and the angle of the camera.

Then Newbie looked at his watch. “Mom we need to get our luggage out of your car. Our cab will be here in ten minutes.”

I sighed and looked into his face. I never had enough time with my kids ever. Not growing up and not when they visit. “Okay but first can we get a family picture?”

“Sure.”

I gave my camera to the skeet ball vender and this is the picture he got of us:

Nice looking family if I do say so myself.

After the picture was taken we headed down to the car and got Newbie and Dawn’s luggage and soon their cab pulled up. We said our good-byes and as the sun began to sink they drove away and we got in to the car and headed home.

~~

About a week after Newbie and Dawn left I decided to get moving with my challenge so I called up the next birthday stone guy.

Remember this guy? This is Linen Pearl. He was the next guy in line for my challenge and he ran right over when I called him. We headed to the hospital and soon I was pregnant with baby 49.

During my pregnancy Leven and Hooper aged up and moved out of the house. What lovely young adults they were. Leven with her grandma’s hair coloring and my skin tone and eye coloring and Hopper with his dads hair and skin coloring and my eye coloring, gosh they are going to do well in whatever they do.

~~

When the kids went back to school I decided to do some “spring” cleaning if you will. I had boxes that I inherited after my parents died that I had never sorted through and though this pregnancy would be a good time do this. What I found was priceless and brought tears to my eyes.

It was old pictures of my parents when my mom was pregnant with me. I missed my parents so very much but finding these was more valuable than gold to me.

hahaha Mom you are too cute. What are you trying to seduce dad when you are about ready to give birth? I’m not sure I would appreciate that. HAHAHHA
Needless to say I got them framed and these pictures now hang up in my home.
I also got a package from my son Jones.

He had gone through the family albums and found a painter to paint this for me. It is a picture of me, my dad (if he were still living) and my boys that inherited my father’s genes.

From right to left (I know we usually say left to right, but it will make more sense doing it this way): Jones, Lawrence (my dad), Me (with my original hair color), Newbie, Dallas (Newbie’s son with Dawn) and Dallas’ son Ash (with Carlie Fey, Logan Fey’s daughter).

~~

The children were settled back in school when the new baby, or should I say babies arrived.

Everyone meet Mason (baby 49), Monroe (baby 50) and Marko (baby 51).

~~

Can you all believe it? I am now at the halfway mark. I am so excited. This is amazing. Thank you all for being a long on this ride. I love you all.
Again as always thank you all for reading and I would love to hear what you have to say about the challenge. Feedback, even bad (but not Hateful), is welcome. You can leave me a message here or on my Facebook page at Ashby Lemi.
Remember if you want any of my children I upload them as Young Adults and you can find their links on the table of content page.